News>Anonymous crime tips now possible with mobile app
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In order to capitalize on cyberspace and engage the Air Force community more effectively, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations has opened its first anonymous tip line that allows submissions from the Internet, via SMS (texting) or using a smartphone application. (U.S. Air Force graphic)
Scan the QR code to get to the AFOSI Anonymous Tip Line. AFOSI just released new internet, smart phone and texting applications to allow individuals to report tip information anonymously. (U.S. Air Force graphic)
by Air Force Office of Special Investigations Public Affairs Office
11/16/2012 - QUANTICO, Va (AFNS) -- Suspicious or illegal activity can now be anonymously reported directly to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations using a mobile phone application or by texting 'AFOSI' and the tip to 274637 (CRIMES) in an SMS text message.
AFOSI launched these methods to capitalize on cyberspace capabilities and engage the Air Force community more effectively to prevent crime.
"This tool allows anyone to provide OSI with completely anonymous tips on everything from illegal drugs, theft and terrorist activities to potential insider threats," said Special Agent Daron Hartvigsen, OSI Cyber Investigations and Operations. "Even better, the online and app version allow individuals to send in photos."
"We want to give Airmen a convenient, and most importantly, anonymous means to report activity detrimental to fellow Airmen. With this system they can get involved without fear of exposure or retribution from others," said Christian Oliver, superintendent of AFOSI Detachment 116. "Airmen really want to do the right thing, but are often hesitant because of perceived social repercussions," added Oliver.
Of special concern to Air Force officials are violent crimes against Air Force members, sexual assaults, and drug use.
The application uses industry standard Secure Socket Layers connection, which encrypts information exchange to ensure anonymity. When accessing the app to submit a tip, a file number is created for retrieval. Later, the tipster can check back and see comments by an OSI agent and provide more information.
"With SSL, the agent can only review the posted information, which is only accessible by the tipster and the OSI," says Oliver, "Air Force members and the OSI agent can continue to converse anonymously through the secure system."
Once downloaded, a video describes the app's features to emphasize its secure use and value to the Air Force and other community law enforcement agencies.
Individuals can find the app in both the Android and Apple store as "TipSubmit Mobile" or use the WR code and select AFOSI as the agency when reporting a tip. Tips can also be sent in a SMS text message by texting 'AFOSI' and their tip to 274637 (CRIMES).
(Compiled from several reports including those from the Air Force Office of Special Investigations Public Affairs Office, HQ AFSPC Public Affairs, 49th Wing Public Affairs and the 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs)
